Bears Re-Sign DE Daniel Hardy to 2-Year Deal

The 27-year-old special teams player returns to Chicago on a new contract.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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The Chicago Bears have re-signed defensive end Daniel Hardy to a two-year contract worth around $5 million, with incentives potentially pushing the total value close to $6 million. Hardy, who was selected by the Los Angeles Rams in the 7th round of the 2022 NFL Draft, played mostly on special teams for the Bears in 2025, making one start and recording 22 tackles.

Why it matters

The Bears are looking to bolster their special teams unit and retain a young player who has shown promise in limited defensive snaps. Hardy's re-signing provides depth and continuity on the defensive line and special teams.

The details

Hardy, 27, played in 17 regular-season games for the Bears in 2025, making one start and totaling 22 tackles. He played on 78% of special teams snaps (355) and 5% on defensive snaps (54). The Rams originally drafted Hardy out of Montana State in 2022, but he started the season on injured reserve and was released in August 2023 before signing with the Bears' practice squad.

  • Hardy was drafted by the Rams in the 7th round of the 2022 NFL Draft.
  • He started the 2022 season on injured reserve.
  • Hardy was released by the Rams in August 2023 and signed to the Bears' practice squad two days later.
  • In 2025, Hardy played in 17 regular-season games for the Bears.

The players

Daniel Hardy

A 27-year-old defensive end who has played mostly on special teams for the Chicago Bears over the past two seasons.

Los Angeles Rams

The NFL team that originally drafted Daniel Hardy in the 7th round of the 2022 NFL Draft.

Chicago Bears

The NFL team that signed Daniel Hardy to their practice squad in 2023 and has now re-signed him to a two-year contract.

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The takeaway

The Bears' re-signing of Daniel Hardy demonstrates their commitment to improving their special teams unit and retaining young, promising players who can contribute in that phase of the game. Hardy's new contract provides him with an opportunity to continue developing and potentially earn more playing time on defense.